Nappan Marsh (Rainbow) Bridge over the Nappan River on Trunk 2, outside Amherst, is closed until further notice.

A detour is available on Route 302, Southampton Road and Smith Road. Traffic approaching Amherst is being rerouted a short distance on the Nappan and Lower Porter Roads, while traffic leaving Amherst is required to detour on Smith Road.

DIGBY COUNTY: Cape St. Marys Bridge

Cape St. Marys Bridge, located on John Doucette Road, Cape St. Marys, is closed for replacement until Friday, Dec. 21.

Detour signs in place.

HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY: Highway 102/103 – Bicentennial Highway

Blasting is taking place on Highway 102 between Exit 2A and Exit 1D and Highway 103 between Exit 2A and Exit 1B. Work is for the new 102/103 interchange.

Blasting will take place twice a day at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for ten-minute intervals. Work is expected to continue until Sunday, March 31, 2019.

HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY: Highway 103

Blasting is taking place twice a day, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Highway 103 between exits 5 and 5A.

Traffic will be stopped in both directions while blasting is occurring. Traffic may be stopped for periods of 20 minutes.

Expect delays and proceed with caution.

Blasting will be ongoing until mid-December.

HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY: Highway 102

Highway 102, northbound from Exit 4C (Bedford) to Exit 5 (Fall River), is reduced to one lane for repaving and widening until Friday, Dec. 21.

INVERNESS COUNTY: Cranton Bridge, Margaree Centre

Cranton Bridge, Margaree Centre is closed until further notice due to safety concerns. Replacement to take place in 2019.

Nappan Marsh (Rainbow) Bridge over the Nappan River on Trunk 2, outside Amherst, is closed until further notice.

A detour is available on Route 302, Southampton Road and Smith Road. Traffic approaching Amherst is being rerouted a short distance on the Nappan and Lower Porter Roads, while traffic leaving Amherst is required to detour on Smith Road.

DIGBY COUNTY: Cape St. Marys Bridge

Cape St. Marys Bridge, located on John Doucette Road, Cape St. Marys, is closed for replacement until Friday, Dec. 21.

Detour signs in place.

HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY: Highway 102/103 – Bicentennial Highway

Blasting is taking place on Highway 102 between Exit 2A and Exit 1D and Highway 103 between Exit 2A and Exit 1B. Work is for the new 102/103 interchange.

Blasting will take place twice a day at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for ten-minute intervals. Work is expected to continue until Sunday, March 31, 2019.

HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY: Highway 103

Blasting is taking place twice a day, Monday through Friday, from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. on Highway 103 between exits 5 and 5A.

Traffic will be stopped in both directions while blasting is occurring. Traffic may be stopped for periods of 20 minutes.

Expect delays and proceed with caution.

Blasting will be ongoing until mid-December.

HALIFAX REGIONAL MUNICIPALITY: Highway 102

Highway 102, northbound from Exit 4C (Bedford) to Exit 5 (Fall River), is reduced to one lane for repaving and widening until Friday, Dec. 21.

INVERNESS COUNTY: Cranton Bridge, Margaree Centre

Cranton Bridge, Margaree Centre is closed until further notice due to safety concerns. Replacement to take place in 2019.

Government is increasing its annual operating grant to two Nova Scotia universities.

Labour and Advanced Education will provide an additional $3.95-million to St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish and $2.2-million to the University of King’s College in Halifax in the 2018-19 fiscal year.

This increase in operational funding will help stabilize their financial positions heading into the 2019-2024 memorandum of understanding between government and the universities.

“St. Francis Xavier and the University of King’s College have been fixtures in our communities for more than a century, and we want their economic, social and cultural contributions to continue for years to come,” said Labi Kousoulis, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. “We’ll continue to work closely with St. FX, King’s and all our universities as we move forward.”

Universities in the province receive an annual grant from government and generate revenue through tuition and other means. In 2018-19, government provided $341 million in university operating grants.

Source: Release

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Government is increasing its annual operating grant to two Nova Scotia universities.

Labour and Advanced Education will provide an additional $3.95-million to St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish and $2.2-million to the University of King’s College in Halifax in the 2018-19 fiscal year.

This increase in operational funding will help stabilize their financial positions heading into the 2019-2024 memorandum of understanding between government and the universities.

“St. Francis Xavier and the University of King’s College have been fixtures in our communities for more than a century, and we want their economic, social and cultural contributions to continue for years to come,” said Labi Kousoulis, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. “We’ll continue to work closely with St. FX, King’s and all our universities as we move forward.”

Universities in the province receive an annual grant from government and generate revenue through tuition and other means. In 2018-19, government provided $341 million in university operating grants.

Government is increasing its annual operating grant to two Nova Scotia universities.

Labour and Advanced Education will provide an additional $3.95-million to St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish and $2.2-million to the University of King’s College in Halifax in the 2018-19 fiscal year.

This increase in operational funding will help stabilize their financial positions heading into the 2019-2024 memorandum of understanding between government and the universities.

“St. Francis Xavier and the University of King’s College have been fixtures in our communities for more than a century, and we want their economic, social and cultural contributions to continue for years to come,” said Labi Kousoulis, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. “We’ll continue to work closely with St. FX, King’s and all our universities as we move forward.”

Universities in the province receive an annual grant from government and generate revenue through tuition and other means. In 2018-19, government provided $341 million in university operating grants.

Source: Release

]]>

Government is increasing its annual operating grant to two Nova Scotia universities.

Labour and Advanced Education will provide an additional $3.95-million to St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish and $2.2-million to the University of King’s College in Halifax in the 2018-19 fiscal year.

This increase in operational funding will help stabilize their financial positions heading into the 2019-2024 memorandum of understanding between government and the universities.

“St. Francis Xavier and the University of King’s College have been fixtures in our communities for more than a century, and we want their economic, social and cultural contributions to continue for years to come,” said Labi Kousoulis, Minister of Labour and Advanced Education. “We’ll continue to work closely with St. FX, King’s and all our universities as we move forward.”

Universities in the province receive an annual grant from government and generate revenue through tuition and other means. In 2018-19, government provided $341 million in university operating grants.

Work is happening across the province to improve the lives of older Nova Scotians.

From skill development, to active living, to making travel more accessible, government released an 18-month progress report on SHIFT: Nova Scotia’s Action Plan for an Aging Population today, Dec. 14.

The report highlights the work of government, community groups and other partners to change perceptions about the value and contributions older Nova Scotians make to our province.

“The plan addresses the demographic shift in Nova Scotia. Over a quarter of the population will be over the age of 65 by 2030,” said Minister of Seniors Leo Glavine. “It’s important to recognize and value the contributions older Nova Scotians have made and continue to make to our communities and our economy.”

The report details progress on more than 50 actions in the plan. They include programs and supports that keep older people involved and connected with their communities, stay physically active and support their social and economic contributions.

Some of the projects are:

New Opportunities for Work, a program by the Centre of Employment Innovation to advance research on older workers in Nova Scotia

Redefining Retirement, a program created by Acadia Entrepreneurship Centre for Business and Third Sector Enhancement to help participants find purpose, passion and opportunity as an older adult

Let’s Get Moving, an action plan developed by government and partners to increase and improve physical activity, with a focus on opportunities

VolunteerNS.ca a free service offered to all non-profit organizations to link volunteers and organizations

Age Friendly Communities Grant program to provide funding for projects that lead to more age-friendly and inclusive communities

“The goals and priorities outlined in SHIFT reflect what was heard during consultation with people, working groups and the advisory committee,” said Bill Berryman, chair, Seniors Advisory Council of Nova Scotia. “Much has been accomplished and I look forward to continuing the work and making a difference in the lives of all Nova Scotians.”

Source: Release

Work is happening across the province to improve the lives of older Nova Scotians.

From skill development, to active living, to making travel more accessible, government released an 18-month progress report on SHIFT: Nova Scotia’s Action Plan for an Aging Population today, Dec. 14.

The report highlights the work of government, community groups and other partners to change perceptions about the value and contributions older Nova Scotians make to our province.

“The plan addresses the demographic shift in Nova Scotia. Over a quarter of the population will be over the age of 65 by 2030,” said Minister of Seniors Leo Glavine. “It’s important to recognize and value the contributions older Nova Scotians have made and continue to make to our communities and our economy.”

The report details progress on more than 50 actions in the plan. They include programs and supports that keep older people involved and connected with their communities, stay physically active and support their social and economic contributions.

Some of the projects are:

New Opportunities for Work, a program by the Centre of Employment Innovation to advance research on older workers in Nova Scotia

Redefining Retirement, a program created by Acadia Entrepreneurship Centre for Business and Third Sector Enhancement to help participants find purpose, passion and opportunity as an older adult

Let’s Get Moving, an action plan developed by government and partners to increase and improve physical activity, with a focus on opportunities

VolunteerNS.ca a free service offered to all non-profit organizations to link volunteers and organizations

Age Friendly Communities Grant program to provide funding for projects that lead to more age-friendly and inclusive communities

“The goals and priorities outlined in SHIFT reflect what was heard during consultation with people, working groups and the advisory committee,” said Bill Berryman, chair, Seniors Advisory Council of Nova Scotia. “Much has been accomplished and I look forward to continuing the work and making a difference in the lives of all Nova Scotians.”

Two lucky Nova Scotians have won free hunting and fishing licences for the rest of their lives.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell and Travis MacLeod, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters, randomly selected this year’s winners of the Licence of a Lifetime lottery today, Dec. 13.

The winners are Devin Muise from Lower Wedgeport, Yarmouth Co. and Gerald MacIsaac from Halifax Regional Municipality.
“Sportfishing and hunting are popular traditional activities that are enjoyed by over 100,000 Nova Scotians each year,” said Mr. Colwell. “The Licence of a Lifetime lottery is a fun way to promote and support these very popular activities. The winners will now be able to enjoy these free, for the rest of their lives.”

The winners receive a free general fishing licence, small game hunting licence and either a deer hunting, bear hunting, bear snaring or fur harvester licence. They are still required to purchase a Wildlife Habitat Stamp.

“I want to thank the departments of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Lands and Forestry for their co-operation and support in this lottery draw,” said Mr. MacLeod. “We are pleased to work with government to highlight these popular activities enjoyed by so many Nova Scotians each year. Congratulations to the winners!”

This is the 26th year that the province and the federation have offered the prize. Money earned from the ticket sales help support the federation’s education and advocacy programs.

In Nova Scotia, you must have a wildlife resources card and appropriate training to obtain a hunting licence. Information about the card is available at https://novascotia.ca/natr/hunt/.

Source: Release

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Two lucky Nova Scotians have won free hunting and fishing licences for the rest of their lives.

Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Keith Colwell and Travis MacLeod, president of the Nova Scotia Federation of Anglers and Hunters, randomly selected this year’s winners of the Licence of a Lifetime lottery today, Dec. 13.

The winners are Devin Muise from Lower Wedgeport, Yarmouth Co. and Gerald MacIsaac from Halifax Regional Municipality.
“Sportfishing and hunting are popular traditional activities that are enjoyed by over 100,000 Nova Scotians each year,” said Mr. Colwell. “The Licence of a Lifetime lottery is a fun way to promote and support these very popular activities. The winners will now be able to enjoy these free, for the rest of their lives.”

The winners receive a free general fishing licence, small game hunting licence and either a deer hunting, bear hunting, bear snaring or fur harvester licence. They are still required to purchase a Wildlife Habitat Stamp.

“I want to thank the departments of Fisheries and Aquaculture and Lands and Forestry for their co-operation and support in this lottery draw,” said Mr. MacLeod. “We are pleased to work with government to highlight these popular activities enjoyed by so many Nova Scotians each year. Congratulations to the winners!”

This is the 26th year that the province and the federation have offered the prize. Money earned from the ticket sales help support the federation’s education and advocacy programs.

In Nova Scotia, you must have a wildlife resources card and appropriate training to obtain a hunting licence. Information about the card is available at https://novascotia.ca/natr/hunt/.

A partnership between the federal and provincial governments, and police agencies, will see more front-line police officers trained to detect impaired driving and keep roads safe.

Nova Scotia has developed a plan that will deliver Standard Field Sobriety Test and Drug Recognition Expert training to more officers across the province.

Justice Minister and Attorney General Mark Furey announced the program today, Dec. 13.

“Road safety is a top priority in Nova Scotia and our police agencies are well-positioned to combat impaired driving,” said Mr. Furey. “With cannabis legalization, and new, tougher federal legislation coming into force, we want to further increase our resources. By training even more front-line officers, we are sending a strong message that driving while impaired will not be tolerated.”

The training plan and the four-officer team that will deliver it, is being supported through $4.5 million over five years from the federal government.

“Our front-line police officers are the first and best line of defence against impaired drivers,” said Bill Blair, Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction. “They are on the job every day checking for, and removing, dangerous impaired drivers from our roads. Training is key to support our police officers as they enforce the law and keep us safe.”

The team includes one officer from the Bridgewater Police Service, Cape Breton Regional Police Service, Halifax Regional Police and Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This team will deliver training to all police agencies.

“Through collaboration, the training team will provide standard training to officers across Nova Scotia, improving road safety through enforcement and education,” said Cst. Robert Kavanaugh of the Nova Scotia RCMP and training team lead.

When a police officer suspects a driver is impaired, whether by drugs or alcohol, they may use observations or tests to determine impairment.

A Standard Field Sobriety Test involves a series of co-ordination tests, typically administered roadside. Nova Scotia now has 342 officers trained to give the test. Through this program, all front-line officers in Nova Scotia will be trained or recertified.

A Drug Recognition Expert evaluation includes steps similar to the sobriety test, along with indicators like blood pressure, body temperature and pulse, as well as measuring pupil size. Drug recognition tests are typically administered at a police station. Nova Scotia currently has 74 officers to conduct them. Through this training program, up to 85 front-line officers will be trained or recertified.

Amendments to the federal Criminal Code come into effect on Dec. 18, enacting stricter alcohol impaired driving laws. These include officers having the authority to demand a breath sample for alcohol of any driver they lawfully stop without reasonable suspicion that the driver has alcohol in their body and making it illegal to be at or over the alcohol limit within two hours of driving.

Corresponding changes to provincial regulations also take effect on Dec. 18. These include 90-day licence suspensions for criminal level drug impaired driving, new offences for blood drug concentration, extending the existing 90-day review process to the new 90-day suspensions, and shortening the minimum wait period before participation in an alcohol ignition interlock.

“MADD Canada welcomes the training of additional officers to detect drug-impaired driving and the enactment of mandatory alcohol screening,” said Susan MacAskill, MADD Canada Atlantic regional manager. “These changes will enable police to detect more impaired drivers – whether it is impairment by alcohol or drugs – and take them off our roads, making communities safer for everyone.”

Source: Release

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A partnership between the federal and provincial governments, and police agencies, will see more front-line police officers trained to detect impaired driving and keep roads safe.

Nova Scotia has developed a plan that will deliver Standard Field Sobriety Test and Drug Recognition Expert training to more officers across the province.

Justice Minister and Attorney General Mark Furey announced the program today, Dec. 13.

“Road safety is a top priority in Nova Scotia and our police agencies are well-positioned to combat impaired driving,” said Mr. Furey. “With cannabis legalization, and new, tougher federal legislation coming into force, we want to further increase our resources. By training even more front-line officers, we are sending a strong message that driving while impaired will not be tolerated.”

The training plan and the four-officer team that will deliver it, is being supported through $4.5 million over five years from the federal government.

“Our front-line police officers are the first and best line of defence against impaired drivers,” said Bill Blair, Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction. “They are on the job every day checking for, and removing, dangerous impaired drivers from our roads. Training is key to support our police officers as they enforce the law and keep us safe.”

The team includes one officer from the Bridgewater Police Service, Cape Breton Regional Police Service, Halifax Regional Police and Royal Canadian Mounted Police. This team will deliver training to all police agencies.

“Through collaboration, the training team will provide standard training to officers across Nova Scotia, improving road safety through enforcement and education,” said Cst. Robert Kavanaugh of the Nova Scotia RCMP and training team lead.

When a police officer suspects a driver is impaired, whether by drugs or alcohol, they may use observations or tests to determine impairment.

A Standard Field Sobriety Test involves a series of co-ordination tests, typically administered roadside. Nova Scotia now has 342 officers trained to give the test. Through this program, all front-line officers in Nova Scotia will be trained or recertified.

A Drug Recognition Expert evaluation includes steps similar to the sobriety test, along with indicators like blood pressure, body temperature and pulse, as well as measuring pupil size. Drug recognition tests are typically administered at a police station. Nova Scotia currently has 74 officers to conduct them. Through this training program, up to 85 front-line officers will be trained or recertified.

Amendments to the federal Criminal Code come into effect on Dec. 18, enacting stricter alcohol impaired driving laws. These include officers having the authority to demand a breath sample for alcohol of any driver they lawfully stop without reasonable suspicion that the driver has alcohol in their body and making it illegal to be at or over the alcohol limit within two hours of driving.

Corresponding changes to provincial regulations also take effect on Dec. 18. These include 90-day licence suspensions for criminal level drug impaired driving, new offences for blood drug concentration, extending the existing 90-day review process to the new 90-day suspensions, and shortening the minimum wait period before participation in an alcohol ignition interlock.

“MADD Canada welcomes the training of additional officers to detect drug-impaired driving and the enactment of mandatory alcohol screening,” said Susan MacAskill, MADD Canada Atlantic regional manager. “These changes will enable police to detect more impaired drivers – whether it is impairment by alcohol or drugs – and take them off our roads, making communities safer for everyone.”

Communities across Nova Scotia are working with government to tackle complex poverty-related issues.

Through the Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program, government departments can partner with community organizations and others to develop programs and test innovative ideas that address poverty-related challenges.

“Poverty affects lives, hurts communities and prevents the growth of healthy economies,” said Minister of Community Services Kelly Regan. “With these projects, more Nova Scotians will be able to access the basic supports they need to help them improve their day-to-day lives.”

This year ten new projects will receive an investment of $485,000 through the program.

In addition to the ten new projects, there are five projects from 2017 that are continuing. This includes the expansion of the Mobile Food Market, a travelling food market program that brings healthy, high-quality and affordable food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, to those who need it.

The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage received $10,000 in 2017 and another $90,000 this year to operate the market in 12 sites across seven communities in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

To be eligible for funding, the projects must align with one of the following four themes:

children

housing

mental health and addictions

economic inclusion

The projects will focus on:

improving financial security for persons with disabilities

working with communities and post-secondary institutions to help workers in early childhood development settings increase their credentials

working toward longer-term secure housing for families in need

developing emergency and transitional housing for youth

helping Indigenous women achieve economic independence

promoting the awareness of trades as a career option to youth

exploring financial options for families with child support orders

working with women to help them successfully transition into the community from correctional services.

With $72,000 in grant funding, Community Services will work with Independent Living Nova Scotia and the Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians to build awareness and support persons with disabilities in opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan.

“Only 21 per cent of Nova Scotians eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan have opened one,” said Anne MacRae, manager of Employment Supports for Persons with Disabilities. “Doing so will help families and adults save for their future, dramatically improving their financial security.”

“As a Registered Disability Savings Plan beneficiary, I am already seeing the benefit of contributing to this type of plan because of the added grant money I receive from the government,” says Michael Coady, co-chair of the Independent Living Nova Scotia board of directors. “I can see no downside to the savings plan and although I will not access my contributions for some time, they will definitely come in handy down the road with living expenses.”

The Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program is one aspect of the government’s $20 million investment in poverty reduction. The work will help develop a blueprint for future poverty reduction efforts and policies and actions from all levels of government to help reduce poverty.

Source: Release

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Communities across Nova Scotia are working with government to tackle complex poverty-related issues.

Through the Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program, government departments can partner with community organizations and others to develop programs and test innovative ideas that address poverty-related challenges.

“Poverty affects lives, hurts communities and prevents the growth of healthy economies,” said Minister of Community Services Kelly Regan. “With these projects, more Nova Scotians will be able to access the basic supports they need to help them improve their day-to-day lives.”

This year ten new projects will receive an investment of $485,000 through the program.

In addition to the ten new projects, there are five projects from 2017 that are continuing. This includes the expansion of the Mobile Food Market, a travelling food market program that brings healthy, high-quality and affordable food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, to those who need it.

The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage received $10,000 in 2017 and another $90,000 this year to operate the market in 12 sites across seven communities in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

To be eligible for funding, the projects must align with one of the following four themes:

children

housing

mental health and addictions

economic inclusion

The projects will focus on:

improving financial security for persons with disabilities

working with communities and post-secondary institutions to help workers in early childhood development settings increase their credentials

working toward longer-term secure housing for families in need

developing emergency and transitional housing for youth

helping Indigenous women achieve economic independence

promoting the awareness of trades as a career option to youth

exploring financial options for families with child support orders

working with women to help them successfully transition into the community from correctional services.

With $72,000 in grant funding, Community Services will work with Independent Living Nova Scotia and the Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians to build awareness and support persons with disabilities in opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan.

“Only 21 per cent of Nova Scotians eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan have opened one,” said Anne MacRae, manager of Employment Supports for Persons with Disabilities. “Doing so will help families and adults save for their future, dramatically improving their financial security.”

“As a Registered Disability Savings Plan beneficiary, I am already seeing the benefit of contributing to this type of plan because of the added grant money I receive from the government,” says Michael Coady, co-chair of the Independent Living Nova Scotia board of directors. “I can see no downside to the savings plan and although I will not access my contributions for some time, they will definitely come in handy down the road with living expenses.”

The Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program is one aspect of the government’s $20 million investment in poverty reduction. The work will help develop a blueprint for future poverty reduction efforts and policies and actions from all levels of government to help reduce poverty.

Communities across Nova Scotia are working with government to tackle complex poverty-related issues.

Through the Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program, government departments can partner with community organizations and others to develop programs and test innovative ideas that address poverty-related challenges.

“Poverty affects lives, hurts communities and prevents the growth of healthy economies,” said Minister of Community Services Kelly Regan. “With these projects, more Nova Scotians will be able to access the basic supports they need to help them improve their day-to-day lives.”

This year ten new projects will receive an investment of $485,000 through the program.

In addition to the ten new projects, there are five projects from 2017 that are continuing. This includes the expansion of the Mobile Food Market, a travelling food market program that brings healthy, high-quality and affordable food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, to those who need it.

The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage received $10,000 in 2017 and another $90,000 this year to operate the market in 12 sites across seven communities in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

To be eligible for funding, the projects must align with one of the following four themes:

children

housing

mental health and addictions

economic inclusion

The projects will focus on:

improving financial security for persons with disabilities

working with communities and post-secondary institutions to help workers in early childhood development settings increase their credentials

working toward longer-term secure housing for families in need

developing emergency and transitional housing for youth

helping Indigenous women achieve economic independence

promoting the awareness of trades as a career option to youth

exploring financial options for families with child support orders

working with women to help them successfully transition into the community from correctional services.

With $72,000 in grant funding, Community Services will work with Independent Living Nova Scotia and the Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians to build awareness and support persons with disabilities in opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan.

“Only 21 per cent of Nova Scotians eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan have opened one,” said Anne MacRae, manager of Employment Supports for Persons with Disabilities. “Doing so will help families and adults save for their future, dramatically improving their financial security.”

“As a Registered Disability Savings Plan beneficiary, I am already seeing the benefit of contributing to this type of plan because of the added grant money I receive from the government,” says Michael Coady, co-chair of the Independent Living Nova Scotia board of directors. “I can see no downside to the savings plan and although I will not access my contributions for some time, they will definitely come in handy down the road with living expenses.”

The Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program is one aspect of the government’s $20 million investment in poverty reduction. The work will help develop a blueprint for future poverty reduction efforts and policies and actions from all levels of government to help reduce poverty.

Source: Release

]]>

Communities across Nova Scotia are working with government to tackle complex poverty-related issues.

Through the Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program, government departments can partner with community organizations and others to develop programs and test innovative ideas that address poverty-related challenges.

“Poverty affects lives, hurts communities and prevents the growth of healthy economies,” said Minister of Community Services Kelly Regan. “With these projects, more Nova Scotians will be able to access the basic supports they need to help them improve their day-to-day lives.”

This year ten new projects will receive an investment of $485,000 through the program.

In addition to the ten new projects, there are five projects from 2017 that are continuing. This includes the expansion of the Mobile Food Market, a travelling food market program that brings healthy, high-quality and affordable food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, to those who need it.

The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage received $10,000 in 2017 and another $90,000 this year to operate the market in 12 sites across seven communities in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

To be eligible for funding, the projects must align with one of the following four themes:

children

housing

mental health and addictions

economic inclusion

The projects will focus on:

improving financial security for persons with disabilities

working with communities and post-secondary institutions to help workers in early childhood development settings increase their credentials

working toward longer-term secure housing for families in need

developing emergency and transitional housing for youth

helping Indigenous women achieve economic independence

promoting the awareness of trades as a career option to youth

exploring financial options for families with child support orders

working with women to help them successfully transition into the community from correctional services.

With $72,000 in grant funding, Community Services will work with Independent Living Nova Scotia and the Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians to build awareness and support persons with disabilities in opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan.

“Only 21 per cent of Nova Scotians eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan have opened one,” said Anne MacRae, manager of Employment Supports for Persons with Disabilities. “Doing so will help families and adults save for their future, dramatically improving their financial security.”

“As a Registered Disability Savings Plan beneficiary, I am already seeing the benefit of contributing to this type of plan because of the added grant money I receive from the government,” says Michael Coady, co-chair of the Independent Living Nova Scotia board of directors. “I can see no downside to the savings plan and although I will not access my contributions for some time, they will definitely come in handy down the road with living expenses.”

The Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program is one aspect of the government’s $20 million investment in poverty reduction. The work will help develop a blueprint for future poverty reduction efforts and policies and actions from all levels of government to help reduce poverty.

Communities across Nova Scotia are working with government to tackle complex poverty-related issues.

Through the Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program, government departments can partner with community organizations and others to develop programs and test innovative ideas that address poverty-related challenges.

“Poverty affects lives, hurts communities and prevents the growth of healthy economies,” said Minister of Community Services Kelly Regan. “With these projects, more Nova Scotians will be able to access the basic supports they need to help them improve their day-to-day lives.”

This year ten new projects will receive an investment of $485,000 through the program.

In addition to the ten new projects, there are five projects from 2017 that are continuing. This includes the expansion of the Mobile Food Market, a travelling food market program that brings healthy, high-quality and affordable food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, to those who need it.

The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage received $10,000 in 2017 and another $90,000 this year to operate the market in 12 sites across seven communities in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

To be eligible for funding, the projects must align with one of the following four themes:

children

housing

mental health and addictions

economic inclusion

The projects will focus on:

improving financial security for persons with disabilities

working with communities and post-secondary institutions to help workers in early childhood development settings increase their credentials

working toward longer-term secure housing for families in need

developing emergency and transitional housing for youth

helping Indigenous women achieve economic independence

promoting the awareness of trades as a career option to youth

exploring financial options for families with child support orders

working with women to help them successfully transition into the community from correctional services.

With $72,000 in grant funding, Community Services will work with Independent Living Nova Scotia and the Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians to build awareness and support persons with disabilities in opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan.

“Only 21 per cent of Nova Scotians eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan have opened one,” said Anne MacRae, manager of Employment Supports for Persons with Disabilities. “Doing so will help families and adults save for their future, dramatically improving their financial security.”

“As a Registered Disability Savings Plan beneficiary, I am already seeing the benefit of contributing to this type of plan because of the added grant money I receive from the government,” says Michael Coady, co-chair of the Independent Living Nova Scotia board of directors. “I can see no downside to the savings plan and although I will not access my contributions for some time, they will definitely come in handy down the road with living expenses.”

The Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program is one aspect of the government’s $20 million investment in poverty reduction. The work will help develop a blueprint for future poverty reduction efforts and policies and actions from all levels of government to help reduce poverty.

Source: Release

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Communities across Nova Scotia are working with government to tackle complex poverty-related issues.

Through the Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program, government departments can partner with community organizations and others to develop programs and test innovative ideas that address poverty-related challenges.

“Poverty affects lives, hurts communities and prevents the growth of healthy economies,” said Minister of Community Services Kelly Regan. “With these projects, more Nova Scotians will be able to access the basic supports they need to help them improve their day-to-day lives.”

This year ten new projects will receive an investment of $485,000 through the program.

In addition to the ten new projects, there are five projects from 2017 that are continuing. This includes the expansion of the Mobile Food Market, a travelling food market program that brings healthy, high-quality and affordable food, including fresh fruits and vegetables, to those who need it.

The Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage received $10,000 in 2017 and another $90,000 this year to operate the market in 12 sites across seven communities in the Halifax Regional Municipality.

To be eligible for funding, the projects must align with one of the following four themes:

children

housing

mental health and addictions

economic inclusion

The projects will focus on:

improving financial security for persons with disabilities

working with communities and post-secondary institutions to help workers in early childhood development settings increase their credentials

working toward longer-term secure housing for families in need

developing emergency and transitional housing for youth

helping Indigenous women achieve economic independence

promoting the awareness of trades as a career option to youth

exploring financial options for families with child support orders

working with women to help them successfully transition into the community from correctional services.

With $72,000 in grant funding, Community Services will work with Independent Living Nova Scotia and the Society of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Nova Scotians to build awareness and support persons with disabilities in opening a Registered Disability Savings Plan.

“Only 21 per cent of Nova Scotians eligible for a Registered Disability Savings Plan have opened one,” said Anne MacRae, manager of Employment Supports for Persons with Disabilities. “Doing so will help families and adults save for their future, dramatically improving their financial security.”

“As a Registered Disability Savings Plan beneficiary, I am already seeing the benefit of contributing to this type of plan because of the added grant money I receive from the government,” says Michael Coady, co-chair of the Independent Living Nova Scotia board of directors. “I can see no downside to the savings plan and although I will not access my contributions for some time, they will definitely come in handy down the road with living expenses.”

The Poverty Reduction Government Innovation program is one aspect of the government’s $20 million investment in poverty reduction. The work will help develop a blueprint for future poverty reduction efforts and policies and actions from all levels of government to help reduce poverty.

A new main entrance will give patients, members of the community and health professionals better access to the Dartmouth General Hospital.

The work is part of the expansion and renovation project with the QEII New Generation project.

“The new entrance is designed to make access to the hospital easier and more welcoming for everyone,” said Lloyd Hines, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. “I’m pleased to see the progress being made with this redevelopment project.”

Mr. Hines was joined by Janet Knox, president and CEO, Nova Scotia Health Authority, and Adrienne Malloy, president and CEO of the Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation today, Dec. 10, to celebrate the milestone.

Along with improving access, the new entrance features a larger, modern registration space with natural light and a covered patient drop-off canopy.

“Dartmouth General Hospital has been caring for its community for over 40 years,” said Ms. Knox. “This expansion and renovation project enhances the services of the Dartmouth General Hospital to our citizens in Dartmouth and beyond.”

Construction continues on the larger expansion and renovation project at Dartmouth General. It will result in the addition of 48 beds on the fifth floor, eight new operating rooms to replace four existing operating rooms, expanded diagnostic imaging, pharmacy and outpatient clinic spaces.

The cost estimate for the project is about $140 million.

“The new front entrance is just the beginning of what is to come as the Dartmouth General is transformed,” said Ms. Malloy. “Our donors to the Above and Beyond campaign have been very generous and now we need others to join us as we push the campaign over the finish line.”

The QEII New Generation project also includes the expansion and renovations at the Halifax Infirmary site of the QEII Health Sciences Centre, new and renovated operating rooms at Hants Community Hospital in Windsor and the construction of a new community outpatient centre at Bayers Lake. This work will allow services to be moved out of the aging Centennial and Victoria buildings on the Victoria General site in Halifax, to prepare for their eventual closure.

Source: Release

A new main entrance will give patients, members of the community and health professionals better access to the Dartmouth General Hospital.

The work is part of the expansion and renovation project with the QEII New Generation project.

“The new entrance is designed to make access to the hospital easier and more welcoming for everyone,” said Lloyd Hines, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. “I’m pleased to see the progress being made with this redevelopment project.”

Mr. Hines was joined by Janet Knox, president and CEO, Nova Scotia Health Authority, and Adrienne Malloy, president and CEO of the Dartmouth General Hospital Foundation today, Dec. 10, to celebrate the milestone.

Along with improving access, the new entrance features a larger, modern registration space with natural light and a covered patient drop-off canopy.

“Dartmouth General Hospital has been caring for its community for over 40 years,” said Ms. Knox. “This expansion and renovation project enhances the services of the Dartmouth General Hospital to our citizens in Dartmouth and beyond.”

Construction continues on the larger expansion and renovation project at Dartmouth General. It will result in the addition of 48 beds on the fifth floor, eight new operating rooms to replace four existing operating rooms, expanded diagnostic imaging, pharmacy and outpatient clinic spaces.

The cost estimate for the project is about $140 million.

“The new front entrance is just the beginning of what is to come as the Dartmouth General is transformed,” said Ms. Malloy. “Our donors to the Above and Beyond campaign have been very generous and now we need others to join us as we push the campaign over the finish line.”

The QEII New Generation project also includes the expansion and renovations at the Halifax Infirmary site of the QEII Health Sciences Centre, new and renovated operating rooms at Hants Community Hospital in Windsor and the construction of a new community outpatient centre at Bayers Lake. This work will allow services to be moved out of the aging Centennial and Victoria buildings on the Victoria General site in Halifax, to prepare for their eventual closure.

The province will modernize the environmental assessment process for small oil refineries, while protecting the environment.

Currently, any refinery producing more than 15,000 litres of fuel per day must undergo a Class II environmental assessment.

Changes to regulations under the Environment Act will increase that limit to more than 200,000 litres. Refineries producing between 15,000 and 200,000 litres of fuel per day would undergo a Class I environmental assessment.

For context, the Irving refinery in Saint John, N.B. processes about 14 million litres of fuel per day.

These changes also clarify that any facility that produces fuel from wood is considered a refinery and requires an environmental assessment.

A Class I environmental assessment typically takes 50 days to complete. A Class II environmental assessment usually takes 275 days to complete and requires that the province appoint an environmental assessment review panel.

Both processes require that a company identify risks to the environment and come up with a plan to mitigate them. Any decision in either process is made based on science and the best available evidence.

The province will modernize the environmental assessment process for small oil refineries, while protecting the environment.

Currently, any refinery producing more than 15,000 litres of fuel per day must undergo a Class II environmental assessment.

Changes to regulations under the Environment Act will increase that limit to more than 200,000 litres. Refineries producing between 15,000 and 200,000 litres of fuel per day would undergo a Class I environmental assessment.

For context, the Irving refinery in Saint John, N.B. processes about 14 million litres of fuel per day.

These changes also clarify that any facility that produces fuel from wood is considered a refinery and requires an environmental assessment.

A Class I environmental assessment typically takes 50 days to complete. A Class II environmental assessment usually takes 275 days to complete and requires that the province appoint an environmental assessment review panel.

Both processes require that a company identify risks to the environment and come up with a plan to mitigate them. Any decision in either process is made based on science and the best available evidence.

The province will modernize the environmental assessment process for small oil refineries, while protecting the environment.

Currently, any refinery producing more than 15,000 litres of fuel per day must undergo a Class II environmental assessment.

Changes to regulations under the Environment Act will increase that limit to more than 200,000 litres. Refineries producing between 15,000 and 200,000 litres of fuel per day would undergo a Class I environmental assessment.

For context, the Irving refinery in Saint John, N.B. processes about 14 million litres of fuel per day.

These changes also clarify that any facility that produces fuel from wood is considered a refinery and requires an environmental assessment.

A Class I environmental assessment typically takes 50 days to complete. A Class II environmental assessment usually takes 275 days to complete and requires that the province appoint an environmental assessment review panel.

Both processes require that a company identify risks to the environment and come up with a plan to mitigate them. Any decision in either process is made based on science and the best available evidence.

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations - Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK - responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

Source: Release

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations – Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK – responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations - Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK - responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

Source: Release

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations – Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK – responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations - Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK - responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

Source: Release

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations – Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK – responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations - Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK - responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

Source: Release

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations – Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK – responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations - Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK - responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

Source: Release

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations – Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK – responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations - Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK - responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.

Source: Release

The auditor general expressed significant concerns about governance of Nova Scotia’s health sector in two of the three chapters. These concerns can threaten the efficiency and effectiveness of health care delivery to Nova Scotians. Oversight of key healthcare organizations by those responsible for it is the basis for strong performance.

Chapter one: Management and Oversight of Health Sector IT: This audit examined whether there is appropriate governance of information technology in the health care sector. The key conclusions are:

the Department of Health and Wellness is not providing effective leadership and direction on IT in the health sector

the four government organizations – Department of Health and Wellness, Department of Internal Services, Nova Scotia Health Authority and the IWK – responsible for information technology (IT) in the health sector have not formalized roles and accountabilities. Key agreements are not finalized, and an executive committee intended to oversee IT in the sector has never met

the four organizations are also not adequately managing IT risks. Examples include: risk management frameworks that are completely missing or have significant gaps; relevant policies requiring monitoring of IT controls are not in place; and collective IT risk to the health sector is not adequately managed.

“Nova Scotians want health care that is secure and available at the best cost possible, said Mr. Pickup. “That is compromised when oversight of IT risks is not adequate. Given the importance of information technology in the provision of health care, I hope elected officials and all Nova Scotians will hold government accountable to fix the problems.”

the IWK board and management did not effectively govern so as to require the development and operation of financial controls. Controls over the seven business processes examined, including procurement, payroll and human resources, were not effective

significant transactions were often not appropriate, adequately supported, or properly authorized. For example, almost half of the samples requiring approval had not been properly approved.

“I want to acknowledge the importance of the IWK to serving those who use its services. This report does not call into question the quality of the health care being provided,” said Mr. Pickup. “However, I was shocked to see the extent and severity of weakness in basic financial management controls at the IWK.”

The report places responsibility for the control weaknesses primarily on the IWK board of directors who did not create a culture that promoted accountability for the functioning of internal controls.

the board of directors has governance structures and processes in place to provide oversight and accountability in support of the achievement of the Workers’ Compensation Board’s goals and objectives, with minor improvements needed

the Workers’ Compensation Board has a plan to become fully funded and has made continued progress in reducing the unfunded liability.

“The Workers’ Compensation Board’s funding strategy has allowed the board to move from roughly 40 per cent funded 20 years ago to nearly 90 per cent today. This has been a significant turn-around for an organization that faced serious issues from a financial perspective,” said Mr. Pickup.

The report contains a total of 19 recommendations from the three audits which have all been accepted by government.
The full report, along with a short summary and highlight video for each of the three chapters, is available at www.oag-ns.ca.